FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) — Another fair in Indiana has decided to cancel amid coronavirus concerns.
The Allen County Fairgrounds Board of Directors announced Thursday it is in the best interest of the organization, volunteers, vendors, and patrons, that the 2020 Allen County Fair be canceled.
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Allen County Fair
Allen County Fair 2019
The fair was originally scheduled for July 28 to Aug. 2.
Just last week officials with the Indiana State Fair announced it would be canceled this year as well for similar reasons.
“Allen County is our home. Each year we come together to celebrate our community and provide enriching family activities during the Allen County Fair. Not unlike any other year, safety is our primary concern. We worked hard to brainstorm solutions that would keep our community safe and allow us to host the fair,” said Allen County Fairgrounds President Jerry Hammon.
RELATED: Allen County 4-H hopes to have a showcase after 2020 fair cancellation
Hammon said the Allen County Fairgrounds continues to work with Allen County 4-H to develop plans to provide a 2020 4-H experience that may include a combination of virtual judging and in-person livestock judging.
However, these events would be closed to the public.
In addition, conversations are still underway with a midway to determine if amusement rides, games and carnival food can be located at the Allen County Fairgrounds during the dates of July 28 to Aug. 2.
Continue to watch the Allen County Fairgrounds Facebook page and website for more information.
It takes hundreds of volunteers and many months to plan the Allen County Fair.
Waiting any longer to announce the status of the fair would put a strain on many businesses, partners and volunteers.
“We have to do what is fiscally responsible and allows the Allen County Fairgrounds to be around for 30 more years. We want to continue to be an asset for our community,” said Allen County Fairgrounds Treasurer Dan Mudrack.
Mudrack said the Allen County Fairgrounds is a nonprofit organization and the Allen County Fair is their largest annual fundraiser.
